Biggest controversies and debates of the 2026 NFL Draft

Hot Mic LIVE 4/24/26

The 2026 NFL Draft, like any other, ignited mixed emotions among fans.

Broadcasts and social media erupted in debate over several topics, while controversies overshadowed the event for some this year.

Here is all the biggest drama that came out of the 2026 NFL Draft:

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Dianna Russini, left, and Mike Vrabel, right, are shown in a split composite image featuring Russini with an ESPN microphone and Vrabel on the Titans sideline wearing a headset. (Imagn Images)

Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel left his team on Day 3 of the draft this year, as he turned his attention toward his family after several scandalous photos of him and NFL reporter Dianna Russini leaked in recent weeks.

Vrabel and the Patriots announced he would be stepping away from the team early on Thursday morning, and just hours later a photo that showed Vrabel and Russini kissing was published by The New York Post.

Vrabel then had a press conference just prior to the start of the first round, amid speculation about his future with the team.

"My previous actions don't meet the standard that I hold myself to," he said at the press conference.

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Vrabel was asked to explain why he initially made a statement calling photos of him and Russini at an Arizona resort "laughable" after they were published by the New York Post earlier in April.

"That's a private and personal matter. I don't think that those comments ... it was an attempt to protect your family," Vrabel said.

It was the last question Vrabel answered before storming off the podium and out of the room.

The Patriots then selected Utah offensive tackle Caleb Lomu in the first round, which